I was first introduced to doulas during the pregnancy of my first son and was immediately taken by what a wonderful concept; women helping women at one of the most profound and life changing times of their lives. The more I learnt about doulas, the more I felt excited about becoming one.
Having had the ‘right, what do we do now’ feeling returning from hospital with Max and then the different challenges the early stages bring, I am focusing my support on the post natal period. I feel every mum should have access to help and support whether it’s their first child or third – we all need help for different reasons – feeling exhausted, help with feeding or taking the pressure off with siblings. The weeks after birth can often be complex and having another woman there for support is really beneficial.
So what can I offer?
I will find out the background and where you would like help and then tailor that support to meet expectations. You can expect emotional help; such as debriefing a birth experience or working through a concern you may have. I’ll offer practical help with baby, making sure you are cared for and anything that makes your life easier. All of this is underpinned by an unconditional approach providing the right support at the right time.
Ultimately, it’s important for Mums when they are ‘riding solo’ they’re confident about their choices.
In terms of training, experience & skillset:
- Comprehensive peer to peer breastfeeding training course through a local baby cafe initiative
- Birth and post natal doula preparation course ran by Developing Doulas
- Breastfeeding study days from Breastfeeding London
- First Aid course for baby and child with the British Red Cross
- Post Natal development course, including refresher First Aid section with Younique
- Twins & Multiples workshop for birth & postnatal care
- Study day for Understanding Newborns, which was so insightful and wonderful!
- Supported mums with twins and mums who have had C-sections
During my time volunteering at a local baby cafe, I helped and supported lots of breastfeeding women who came down to either get out of the house and meet other mums or help them with their breastfeeding questions to make sure they have the answers to then go home and put into practice the advice they were given.
